ETFE Canopy: Ayr Central Shopping Centre

Year of Completion: 2013

Architect/Designer: Leslie Jones Architecture
Location:
Ayr, Scotland
Category:
Exterior
Market Sector:
Retail
Scope Of Works:
Engineering
Manufacture
Project Management
Install
Steelwork
Fabric Type:
ETFE
Design Style:
Barrel Vault
Inflatable
Function:
Roof
Ayr Central Shopping Centre, located in the heart of Ayr, Scotland, is undergoing a major
transformation this summer with the addition of an iconic, bright, ETFE roof. The new roof will
allow everyone to shop rain or shine, while enjoying fresh air and natural sunlight. 
Designed by Leslie Jones Architecture, the roof is being constructed of ETFE foils. ETFE stands
for Ethylene Tetra Fluoro Ethylene its a fluorine based incredibly strong plastic. As one of
the most desirable building features being used by architects today, ETFE can span large spaces
at a fraction of the cost of glass.  
Air Cushions:
Oversailing the shops, the ETFE canopy roof will be comprised of two layers (an upper and a
lower) forming a cushion. Cushions are filled with air, controlled and monitored by an air
handling unit. This unit only needs to maintain pressure and not generate airflow which means
minimal energy consumption.
In total, the roof will comprise 34 horizontal air-filled cushions and 31 vertical air-filled
cushions - offering 2,000m2 of coverage.
Engineered to Perform:
ETFE is 1% the weight of glass, yet its being engineered for heavy snow loads, wind and rain
its a very durable building material, requiring minimal steel support.
Why ETFE:  
ETFE was chosen because it is has a remarkable 80% light transmission, its 100% recyclable,
cost effective, and requires minimal maintenance. 
Architen is proud to be realising Leslie Jones Architectures design, by patterning,
manufacturing and installing the roof in June.
...see http://www.architen.com for more information.
www.architen.com